A flooded basement is a dreaded home disaster that no one wants to face as a property owner. But the reality is that basements can and do flood, whether from defective plumbing or inclement weather. For this reason, it is wise as a home owner to learn what to do in case of a basement flood emergency. Continue reading to gain this knowledge, and be better prepared to manage a flooded basement if it were to ever happen to your home.

Act Fast

The most important thing you can do when you discover that your basement is flooding is to act fast. Take immediate action to reduce the ultimate amount of water damage as much as possible. By neglecting to reverse a water leak, you risk causing further damage to your home, and paying thousands of dollars in repairs and renovations. The sooner you effectuate a remedy, the better your chances are at recovering more efficiently in terms of money and time.

In the case that your basement floods, here’s what to do:

1. Shut Off the Water Supply. Find your main water shut off valve and immediately turn the water supply off to the home. If you know the exact source of the water flow, you can just turn off that water source, such as a water heater or water softener. It is best to first turn off the main water supply to be sure the overflow is stopped immediately. In the case of a sewage backup, refrain from using any appliances that use water, such as dishwashers and washing machines.

2. Do Not Walk Through the Water. Assess the damage from a distance first. This will protect you from electric shock and other potential, unforeseen hazards that can occur as a result from indoor floods. If you believe it is 100% safe, and choose to walk through the water, turn off the power supply to the entire home first. And be sure to wear protective gear, especially if the flood waters come from a sewer pipe.

3. Check for Gas Leaks and Structural Damage. While still at a distance, also look for possible gas leaks and damage. If you cannot tell, do not enter the water and move on to the next step.

4. Call a Licensed Plumber. They retain the proper tools, training, and knowledge to manage your basement flood and repair the source of the plumbing problem. Most plumbing companies that have been established for some time even offer 24 hour emergency service for indoor floods.

5. Contact Your Insurance Provider. Once you have a plumber on the way, immediately contact your home owners’ insurance company. Do not hesitate to make this call! Because the longer you wait, your chances of getting approved for coverage lessen. And be sure to take extensive photos of all the damage, and save all documents and receipts for repairs and related purchases.

6. Take Preventative Measures. Preventative maintenance is the best method for avoiding another basement flood or plumbing emergency. Ask your plumber what you can do to prevent future plumbing problems, and your options for in-home plumbing security.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 if you have a flooded basement in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to provide emergency plumbing services 24 hours a day and 7 days a week for indoor residential and commercial floods, pipe bursts, water leaks, and more. We have been in business for over 100 years, so you know you can trust our licensed and insured plumbers. We also offer free plumbing advice and information any time. Call 317-784-1870 for 24 hour emergency plumbing service in Indianapolis, IN today.